Tracy L Marrs

Exodus Tracy L Marrs

The book of Genesis reveals God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The nation of Israel is recorded beginning in Genesis chapter 29 with the sons of Jacob. Jacob had 12 sons whose descendants formed the 12 tribes of Israel. Jacob (Israel), moved with his family from the land of Canaan to Egypt when he was reunited with Joseph during the seven-year famine that inflicted the region. The book of Exodus begins with listing Jacob and his sons who were the forefathers of the nation of Israel followed by stating, "All the persons who came from the loins of Jacob were seventy in number, but Joseph was already in Egypt. Joseph died, and all his brothers and all that generation" (Exodus 1:5-6). The nation continued to multiple and a new king who did not know Joseph ruled in Egypt. The new king was concerned that the Israelites would revolt against Egypt and caused them to become slaves who were forced to build structures for the Egyptians. The king instructed every newborn male of the Israelites to be killed immediately after birth to control the nation's growth. I believe you will learn valuable lessons about God's love, mercy, and compassion, despite the nation's complaining and disobedience during this 15-week study. Stick with it as you learn from the Word of God.